Archaeological Assessment of Project STP-162-1(15), Spalding County

In compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and amendments thereto, project STP-162- 1(15), Spalding County has been surveyed with respect to archaeological resources, especially those on or eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). The purpose of the survey was to locate, identify and evaluate the significance of any archaeological resources within the proposed project's area of potential environmental effect. Originally, the proposed project consisted of the reconstruction of the intersection at SR 92 and SR 16 in the city of Griffin. The intersection would have been redesigned to provide a 4-legged signalized intersection, which provides for dual left turn lanes in the intersection for the southbound SR 92 traffic traveling into Griffin. The project would also include the relocation of Solomon Street. Solomon Street would have been closed before its current intersection with Flynt Street. The required right-of-way to relocated Solomon Street varies from approximately 30.5 m (100 ft) to 51.8 m (170 ft). An archaeological survey consistent with the project description was conducted along the entire project corrido r September 19, 1996. The revised concept has changed in terms of the relocation of Solomon Street. Currently, Solomon Street would continue to have access to Flynt Street. Also, Melrose Avenue would now be closed at its current intersection with Flynt Street. Required right-of-way would not change. An archaeological survey consistent with the project description was conducted along the entire project corridor. An archaeological survey (Level II) was conducted in accordance with "GDOT/ FHWA Cultural Resource Survey Guidelines" developed by the GDOT Staff Archaeologists in consultation with DNR Historic Preservation Section Staff and concurred in by the Federal Highway Administration and State Historic Preservation Officer. These guidelines provide general survey boundaries and methodological approaches to archaeological surveys based on the type/ scope of proposed highway projects and are followed during the initial identification of archaeological resources.